So you want to drink some whiskey?

You may enjoy a glass in the comfort of your own home, but do you really know how to drink it properly in public?  Just like anything else in this world, there is a certain culture that comes with drinking whiskey.  There is an art that accompanies the glass.  If you want to be taken seriously as a whisky drinker, there are some basic things you need to know about your beverage and the social expectations that go with it.

Don’t worry, you won’t have to know information about the rye grain used or the grain supplier in order to enjoy a glass of whiskey with your co-workers or friends.

1. Glass & Serving
   First things first, whiskey is enjoyed in small doses.  Due to the high alcohol content, you don’t need much to feel the buzz.  Whiskey is served in a glass…always. This is because other cup materials can affect the flavor of the beverage and compromise the quality.  Whiskey is served in a glass called an Old Fashion or a lowball glass. This is a short tumbler that holds no more than ten ounces.

2. Drinking Options
   When ordering your drink, you will want to specify how you would like your glass of whiskey.  Do you prefer it on the rocks, neat or with a bit of water?  Each of these options are within the whiskey culture parameters. When it comes to especially high-proof whiskey, it is not unlikely that even experts will have their drink diluted a bit to turn down the punch.   The way the rye grain is fermented plays a major role in how strong the beverage tastes.
3. Savor the Flavor
   One of the major pieces of whiskey culture is the way you drink it.  It’s all about sipping the beverage.  Since it’s a strong drink, it would be tough to drink it quickly.  The main idea is to savor the flavor.  With each sip, embrace the flavor.

Whiskey connoisseurs can detect a whole host of variables of the whiskey just by the smell.  Though, if you are going out for happy hour after work, you don’t need to be a whiskey expert.  You just need to know the social protocol that comes with ordering a glass of whiskey at the bar.